MRI and Dexa scans are used in the diagnosis of bone health. Dexa stands for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, while MRI is known as magnetic resonance imaging.
This seems to be very important, particularly since the conversation pertains to the treatment of different health complications. This is to inform which types of scans are more useful, be it the MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or Dexa (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry). Yet, notions of punishment and rewards are significantly different as far as their operation, activities, and consequences are concerned. These differences can also be used by patients fearing decisions that affect their well-being to their advantage.
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Purpose of the Scan
MRI Scan: MRI is a type of treatment that uses magnetic resonance waves to create images of the organs, tissues, and skeleton. In this case, it is employed as a method of diagnosing diseases affecting the brain, spinal cord, joints, and soft tissue. It is also useful for identifying the tumours, inflammation and infection within the body system.
Dexa Scan: The Dexa scan primarily deals with bone mass density. It is considered the reference tool for assessing fracture risk and osteoporosis diagnosis. Osteoporosis patients can also use the scan to know how effective the treatment measures that are being taken are.
Technology Used
MRI Scan: Uses strong electromagnetic fields and radio waves in the development of images. The technology uses rays to change hydrogen atoms within the body and create pictures.
Dexa Scan: Uses low dose irradiation to determine the status of bone mass. This technology applies two X-ray beams of different energy levels to distinguish between the bone and the soft tissue.
Procedure Duration
MRI Scan: The “MRI scans near me”procedure is known to take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the part being scanned and the density of the scans.
Dexa Scan: Far more so and commonly ranging from 10 to 20 minutes at most. This makes it ideal for regular bone density scans since it is easy to use by anyone in the clinic.
Preparation Required
MRI Scan: In case contrast dye is used, the patient may be required to fast for some hours. Before MRI scans near me, patients must leave all metallic items behind because the magnetic field influences them.
Dexa Scan: No preparation is needed at all. Patients should not take calcium supplements one whole day before the scan and should wear clothes which are not too tight or contain metallic buttons.
Comfort During the Scan
MRI Scan: The patients, as stated, lie on a small tube that may be squeaky; this can be uncomfortable for patients who have claustrophobia. Certain machinery can be loud, but earplugs or headphones are made available to the users.
Dexa Scan: This implies a patient lies on an open X-ray table, which is less invasive and rather comfortable. The look and feel of the structure are airy, and it does not give a cramped feeling of being inside a machine.
Radiation Exposure
MRI Scan: MRI scans near me do not employ ionising radiation. Therefore, it is more suitable for reboot imaging, especially for pregnant and children.
Dexa Scan: Very low dose of ionising radiation which is far less than used in a simple X-ray. While safe, it is not normally advised for pregnant women to take.
Areas of Application
MRI Scan: Multifunctional and applied in different diseases of the central nervous system, disorders in the spinal cord, joint disease, and soft tissue inflammation.
Dexa Scan: Expert in bone density focused especially on osteoporosis and proved helpful in reviewing the density over time.
Image Detail
MRI Scan: Requires intensely clear pictures of soft tissues, organs, as well as the skeletal system, so MRI scans near me are particularly essential for elaborated conditions diagnosis.
Dexa Scan: Can determine the exact dimensions of bone mass density, although quite less specific than soft tissues and organs.
Cost and Accessibility
MRI Scan: Often a lot more costly and treatments are available to a lesser extent because they require higher degrees of technology and equipment.
Dexa Scan: Less expensive and more marketed for patients being treated in day-care facilities or in small clinics.
Use of Contrast Agents
MRI Scan: In general, MRI scans can use contrasting agents such as gadolinium to improve the image quality. It involves the administration of a drug by injection through a vein, and its uses may result in some slight reactions.
Dexa Scan: Intravenous pyelography does not employ contrast agents, making it less complex and more non-invasive as compared to other approaches.
Conclusion
The knowledge of the differences between MRI scans near me and Dexa scans provides useful information in the selection of the right imaging modality necessary for the treatment. MRI is quite versatile in that it is useful for imaging many conditions, while Dexa is specifically useful for bone density measurements.
CareScan provides state-of-the-art imaging services tailored to your health needs. Our experienced team ensures comfort and accuracy in every scan using the latest technology. Contact us to learn more about our services.
